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To the friends and members of Sparta Presbyterian Church
 
    This past weekend was a blessing to the church in the celebration of the Gifts of Women.  Carolyn Sprinkle, in her inspiring message, highlighted all the projects and work accomplished by our congregation and gave encouragement and praise for the many efforts of Sparta Presbyterian.  When we reflect on what was said, there are many people responsible for the ministry of this church, and it is significant.  In the end, I am always reminded that any credit for the work of the church belongs to Christ himself. 
 
    What I am saying is that Christ is in you and me.  That was also demonstrated in the selfless way in which the men stepped up and provided the lunch.  After several meetings and a number of discussions, the men all said, “We can do that!”  And it was done with little fanfare.  Setting up and cleaning up, provided great time for fellowship.  Know that the women of this church are truly appreciated.  We men intend on doing more to help and to be loving partners with our women in the work of the church.
 
    As the Lenten Season moves along, I want to remind the church that on March 10th, we will be hosting the noontime Lenten worship and lunch at Sparta United Methodist Church.  This is simply a reminder that we join with other churches throughout this holy season to share in our devotion to God’s saving grace in Christ.  However, during Holy Week, we will be providing our own services at Sparta Presbyterian.
 
        There will be a Maundy Thursday Communion Service at 7:00 on April 1st, a Good Friday Service at 2:00 p.m. with the church open from 1:00 to 3:00 for individual prayer time, an early Easter service at 8:00, breakfast at 9:00 and the normal Easter Worship at 11:00.  Holy Week will be a very special time and all of us will want to be a part of these special events.
 
    As we think about the immediate future, we say farewell to Rich Miller, who will be doing special Perelli Training in Florida for three months.  We will miss him and his willingness to be so helpful with all of our church activities.  Rich has such a special relationship with horses, and we pray for his safe journey, successful training, and his return in the summer.

Don’t forget “Dancing with the Stars” to be held on Saturday night. George White and his daughter Lauren are among the stars who will help with this very important fund raiser. Come out and support. I think we are in for a great night. Karen Leyes is the real star of the show. Thanks Karen, for your superb leadership and dedication.
 
    Many of you have been experiencing anxiety and stress with the weather and with the economy.  Know that these are the concerns of your church as well.  Along with the long winter, come other concerns, such as health and wellness.  Let us lift one another in prayer.  I want to mention Jean Reeves, our own angel of mercy, whose grandson, Johnny Livingston, is submitting to cancer treatments.  There are many others in need of our prayers, and this is a discipline we must do during these Lenten weeks.  The prospect of Easter is always filling us with joy and hope.  May it be so for you!
 
    A final word:  this Sunday we will be dealing with the subject of temptation.  We are reminded of this prayer in the Sixth Petition:  “Heavenly Father, lead us into no situation where temptation might prove too much for us, but help us resist the evil power–so that we may remain Your children.”   Amen
 
                                                        Pastor Bob Matthias 

To the members and friends of Sparta Presbyterian Church

So much has taken place since last week that it feels as though we were caught up in a whirlwind. The funeral for Shirley Ballew was held on Thursday at First United Methodist Church in Hickory. All of us here in Sparta were shocked and saddened at her sudden passing, but the same was true of her community in Hickory.

I want to say a word about Shirley, her influence on her family, her church and her entire community. She was a loving mother, grandmother, wife and friend. And all those she touched with her life came together to honor Shirley’s memory. I would say there were between 250 and 300 people in that impressive church. The Austin pipe organ was beautifully played to lead our singing in praise to God as we gave thanks to Him for the life of one of his saints. We will all truly miss Shirley. Our deepest sympathy is extended to Bill, Sam, Bill Jr. and his family.

Returning home around 6:00 p.m. we received the call that Amon Edwards was failing quickly. We arrived at the rest home about five minutes after he peacefully slipped away. Surrounded by his family, including the children, was a golden opportunity to talk about the victory now won in Christ, and the perfect peace now given to Amon. The funeral was Sunday afternoon at the Glade Valley Presbyterian Church, which was filled to capacity with those who honored his memory, his service to his country, and his love for his family. We extend our deepest sympathy to Amon’s family and many friends.

As the life of the church continues, we look forward to this Sunday, when we gather to celebrate the gifts of our women. The Presbyterian Women will be in charge of the worship service, with a number of our ladies assisting in the service. And since this is the fourth Sunday, the potluck will be held immediately following the service, with the men in charge. Believe me, there has been much anxiety about the meal, but we promise all of you that lunch will be served and it will be good.

I also want to remind everyone that the Lenten Season continues with the noon service each Wednesday at the Sparta Methodist Church. A light lunch follows the service. Our day for duty is March 10th, and the women of our church will provide the lunch. Their serving appears so effortless, and we count on them so often. Thank you, Presbyterian Women.

As we honor our women this Sunday, and their gifts to the Church, let us keep in mind the solemnity of this season. I commend to you the Gospel for the Day (Luke 13:31-35) and think about what it means to be called “a fox.”

See you on Sunday!

Pastor Bob Matthias

To the members and friends of Sparta Presbyterian Church
After two weeks without church services, Sunday was a time of rejoicing as we came together to worship. And to think, this past Sunday fell on Valentine’s Day. There was our little granddaughter Lauren, with basket in hand, giving out hearts and treats to all our worshipers. It was a charming idea, and just think… it was all her idea. Do any of us have any doubts that our children watch and learn how we love one another?
So often in life, we experience the strange mix of joy and sorrow. The gift of life is brought more clearly into focus at the end of life. And so it was yesterday when the news of the death of Shirley Ballew touched us all. Our prayers now are for the comfort of Shirley’s family, Bill, Bill Jr. and Sam, and their families. But we are all part of that family and as we plan for the funeral we need to hear the healing words of the Gospel.
The committal will be in Oakwood Cemetery in Hickory at 1:00 on Thursday, with a memorial service to follow at First United Methodist Church, 311 Third Ave. N.E. at 2:00, also on Thursday. We hope that many of you will be able to attend this service of remembrance and joyful celebration of Shirley’s life. Cards and letters may be sent to
P O Box 2121 Hickory, NC 28603.
At a person’s death, the church shares the grief of those who mourn and remembers the brevity of life on earth. At the funeral we give voice to sorrow, thank God for our loved one, and entrust this companion of ours into the hands of God. Trusting in God’s promise in baptism that we are claimed by Christ forever, and we rest in the sure hope of the resurrection. We offer to Bill and family our deepest sympathy, and pray for God’s highest grace and love.
It is significant that Shirley’s funeral will be at the very beginning of Lent. And as we begin Lent tomorrow (Ash Wednesday), I remind all of you of our brief service at 7:00 p.m. We come full circle, life, death, and resurrection, as we walk with Christ through his Passion—which is our gift, our salvation, our confidence, as we walk into an uncertain future. We do know this: God is with us.
A few other thoughts about our congregation are worth mentioning. Art and Carolyn Ebright will be representing our congregation on Saturday as the Presbytery meets in Salisbury. Laura and I are looking forward to attending. Looking to the following week, the Presbyterian Women will be leading the worship and the men will be in charge of the luncheon, as this is the fourth Sunday. Do not be surprised if some of your men are called upon to lend a hand. Don’t worry ladies, it will be wonderful.

Please remember Sandy League in your prayers. She will have shoulder surgery on Friday.

So my friends, may God’s Spirit grant you comfort and grace to live out your days in holy service and in praise of His Name.

Pastor Bob Matthias

To the friends and members of Sparta Presbyterian Church

What could be more frustrating and beautiful than this weather? This will certainly be the winter to remember. And, as I look ahead to the forecast of the next seven days, the weekend predictions are, once again, not promising. This is beginning to look a bit like Iowa.

I have tried to call a number of you this week, just to make sure you are healthy and comfortable. When there is a special need, I would hope you would call me or someone in our church family, for assistance. No one should ever feel alone during this long winter spell.

A confession: Sunday was a particular challenge for me because worship is such an essential part of my life. I know each of you feel the same way. The Call to Worship takes on new meaning to all of us when we can’t get to church due to the weather! Even though church was cancelled, I found myself shoveling off the church walk, much like my Dad did for many years on Sunday mornings. It was a time for thought and waving to folks traveling by. Laura and I shared a beautiful time of worship in the sunlit sanctuary-just the two of us. I encourage you to set time apart for reading and prayer wherever you are on Sunday mornings.

Art and Carolyn Ebright worked on the walkways on Saturday. Thank you to everyone who has assisted in the snow removal chores this winter.

I will be at church this Sunday for worship. We never want anyone to risk bad roads or slick sidewalks, so please judge carefully your ability to travel safely to church. Please heed the decision of the Session on the canceling of the formal church service if they feel it is necessary to do so.

This Sunday is Transfiguration Sunday, with the story of Jesus along with Peter, James and John, going up to the mountain to pray. And the gospel tells us, “that while he was praying, the appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became dazzling white.” The disciples “saw his glory and the two men who stood with him.”

This particular text is always used on the Sunday before the beginning of Lent. Ash Wednesday is the 17th of February, and we will have a brief service on Wednesday evening at 7:00. There will also be joint services held at Sparta Methodist Church at noon.

As long as I am reminding you of special events, remember that Sunday is also Valentine’s Day. Remember your dear Valentines in special ways, maybe with a simple, “I love you.” Those words can carry an amazing message—the message we hear every Sunday as we gather to worship him who first loved us.
Pastor Bob

To the members and friends of Sparta Presbyterian Church

With all of the snow and other winter weather, we were all in the same boat (or should I say “sled”) last Sunday. None of our churches wanted to risk holding services with treacherous walkways and roads. Now, we are watching the on-going winter weather advisories, wondering about this weekend. If we need to cancel worship again, for any reason, we will reschedule it for Monday or Tuesday. Just keep this in mind. Above all, we want everyone to be safe.

In last week’s letter, I mentioned the Cross Project. Carolyn Young has provided the artist’s rendition of the proposed cross. We know that the glass surround will add significant weight to the symbol, so we are thinking of how we can best mount the new feature for our worship space. We have several folks thinking about it and it will be done well. The rendition will be sent along with this letter, but know that the dimensions of the original cross are not accurate. At least you know the general appearance..

Our session is planning to meet on Monday evening, February 8th, and we continue to plan for the future of our church, including the utilization of the manse. There are some prospects that would fit well for its future use. More to follow.

As we continue to experience winter weather, I encourage all of you to look out for one another, and to call upon me if you have any issues that need immediate attention. This includes fuel, food, transportation, etc. We want to be the church, and when the weather closes in, we do not want anyone feeling isolated and alone.

Continue to offer prayers for those who are ill or shut-in. During these months, when darkness comes early, we need to feel the love and support of fellow members who convey the love of Christ. For that, there is no substitute. Remember also, those in our community who are grieving and sad. Last evening I had the opportunity to attend the County Commissioners Meeting. The Boy Scouts were being honored for 100 years of scouting. Scott Moncrief, Eagle Scout and Scout Leader, spoke to the commissioners about the closing of his plant at Martin Marietta, another blow to our local economy. His concern and anguish are for the people left out of work. Our prayers must also be for those many families now left in desperate straights. May all of us become beacons of hope for all who face this dilemma.

What comes to mind, are the words of Paul, who wrote, “We boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.” (Romans 5:2-5)

Pastor Bob Matthias

To the friends and members of Sparta Presbyterian Church

The weather during the month of January has been an issue for all of us—wet and cold. Yet, our activity at our lovely church has been zipping right along. We have had an annual meeting, along with the election of two new elders; and this last Sunday. the pot-luck, which is always a wonderful way for the church to fellowship. I only include this because the fourth Sunday in February, another pot-luck event will take place, this time with the men setting up and hosting. No, the men will not be cooking!

The worship committee has been busy planning for a newly designed cross for the front of the worship space. An artist with stained glass is creating a surround of about three inches to highlight the original cross. It is expected to be finished in 4-6 weeks. This was an idea of Carolyn Young, and is now involving our entire worship committee as it seeks to beautify our sanctuary. Speaking of worship issues, Ash Wednesday is on February 17th, and we will have a service with disposition of ashes at 7:00. Mark the date on your calendars.

This Sunday is the 5th Sunday of the month, the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time (Liturgical Calendar), the 3rd Sunday in Luke’s Gospel, the 2nd Sunday in the Nazareth synagogue, and the 1st Sunday to hear the “Love Chapter” in three years.

Looking ahead, the following Sunday is Super Bowl and in two weeks, Valentine’s Day. I thought this might be helpful for you men.

A week from Saturday is our quarterly Presbytery Meeting and it will be held in Salisbury. The Ebrights will be serving as our representatives. Laura and I look forward to joining them for the day.

Also on that evening, our own George White and his daughter, Lauren, will be performing in the Dancing of the Stars, a production at the Silver Dollar to benefit the Alleghany County Educational Foundation. Tickets are still available and this is something we won’t want to miss. Give Karen Leys a call if you need to purchase a ticket.

How often the churches and the community come together to produce common good. This is one of those times, and to support the foundation begun by the late John Woodruff, is our joy and our privilege. And I know that George will not let us down. We all hope to see him the next morning in church!

Pastor Bob Matthias

To the members and friends of Sparta Presbyterian Church

This has been a most troublesome week, with many of us watching the distressing images from Haiti, particularly as it affects the very young and the very old. Disasters of any kind are distressing, but this particular tragedy surpasses any event in recent history, and of itself will be history, both in its event and in its recovery.

So many countries have begun to help, and all of the church groups have initiated plans to assist this poor and devastated country. I announced on Sunday that word would be forthcoming from Salem Presbytery. It has and there are avenues through the Presbyterian Disaster Assistance Program. There is a web site available through that program. My first suggestion is to designate your gift through your local church, so that both you and your congregation might be given proper benevolence credit.

Last Sunday, must of the sermon focused on this tragedy and on the fact that out of chaos comes hope. And this hope is given to us through our faith in Christ, who knew suffering, even death, so that we might have life. And in the region of the quake, there are many personal stories that reaffirm this. After such an horrific event, life will never be the same—for the Haitians and for all those willing to help them.

Also last Sunday, we installed our new Session, and ordained a new Session member, Art Ebright. Both Art and Carolyn will be representing our congregation at the next Presbytery meeting in Salisbury on February 6th. What a blessing to our congregation to have such servants of Christ. Marion Leys, who previously served, is again serving on the Session. We thank all of our Session members for their service.

This Sunday will be our monthly potluck following worship. I want to encourage all of you to come for worship and sharing in a meal. There is comfort and healing in our being together. It also comes through our life of service, and our people are continuing to do that in the work at the Food Closet. And in that service, there comes a blessing.

Our service on Sunday will reflect the Gospel account of Jesus’ beginning ministry and how he was filled with the Holy Spirit. We too, are filled with the Holy Spirit: when we hear his words, when we serve his people, when we are touched by another’s sorrow and when we are moved to love and care for others. This is the Prayer of the Day for January 24th.
Almighty God, you sent Jesus to proclaim your kingdom and to teach with authority. Anoint us with your Spirit, that we too may bring good
news to the poor, bind up the brokenhearted, and proclaim liberty to the captive; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.

Have a blessed week,
Pastor Bob Matthias

To the members and friends of Sparta Presbyterian Church
As our community experienced another very cold week, we in the church experienced frozen water lines. As a consequence, we had church services on Sunday, but no water. This only reminds us of how we take our modern conveniences for granted. I remember as a boy, my father traveled to a rural church each Sunday, only to start a fire in the pot-belly stove in the back of the church. We did not worry about frozen pipes, or even about water. But there was an old hand pump outside.

Naturally, when the weather is cold, we worry about all of you. Please feel free to call me if you find yourselves in an emergency. I can certainly help in finding someone who can be of assistance.

This past Sunday we held the annual meeting of the congregation. It was very brief, but long enough to elect two new elders. Marion Leyes, who formerly served the session, and Art Ebright were elected. Art will be ordained an elder this coming Sunday during the worship service. We deeply thank Jeff Jolly and Charles Joines, who have both served this congregation for the past three years. Both of these men have done so much in terms of ministry in our community. Charles’ efforts were with the buildings and grounds and Jeff’s, with our social outreach programs.

Speaking of social outreach, our church members have been busy at the Solid Rock Food Closet this month. So much assistance is provided the community through those efforts. Everyone would benefit from serving just once. The hours for our church folks are 10:30-2:00, Monday—Wednesday. Of course, our hero, Jean Reeves is there five days a week, all year long. Without her, the Food Closet simply would not function. She truly finds joy in her serving. Call her, and sign up for a life-changing day!

Between these paragraphs, another phone call to inform us that the Food Closet is closing for the day. Another snow! It is now 9:30 and given the rate of snowfall, we might see additional cancellations. We are doing our best to keep our joy with all this wintry weather. Go out and make a snowman!

Tomorrow, the Presbyterian Women are planning to meet and continue the study of the Book of Joshua. The subject will be the “just war” theory. We all have our ideas about this, especially given our country’s current involvement. What do you think? What does God think, or can we even discern the mind of God?

As we look forward to Sunday, we anticipate hearing the story of Jesus’ first miracle. We refer to the story as the wedding in Cana. The last verse of the passage ends with the words, “and his disciples believed in him.” Can we do any less? The larger picture given to us during this season of Epiphany, is that Jesus is made know to his followers, including his power to perform wonders and miracles. He continues to touch each one of us the same way. It means that we must be open to his miracles in us.

Pastor Bob

To the members and friends of Sparta Presbyterian Church

“The weather outside is frightful. . .” This is the first thought crossing my mind as I make my way outside. The other thought is, “How long, O Lord, how long?” It is not just the cold, but also the bitter wind that affects us all. Schools have been canceling classes, in consideration of the children and their health and safety. We in the church continue our services and as long as our building is warm, we will be safe.

Our people are working at the Food Closet this week, and if ever compassion was defined, it would be by those who give so freely of their time and energy at the Food Closet. Walt Bennett, Carolyn Young, Mary Jane Ciraco, Anne Mackey, Jeff Jolly, Doris Stoker, Shirley Laws, Marie Thompson and Jean Reeves were those I noticed. Others also serve and Barbara Joines organizes the crew. What wonderful efforts for a real need. What touches my heart is to observe those waiting for assistance, standing out in the cold to receive their groceries.

Another group effort was to participate in the removal of the Christmas decorations earlier today. There is a sense of sadness at ending this beautiful Christmas season, but it was time. Epiphany is January 6th, the season of Christ made manifest to the world. I was quite amazed at how dry the greens had become, and it was a case of many hands making the dismantling an easy task.

During this frigid and inclimate time, make sure you check on one another. Call for help, if you have a special need, and try to limit your travel and the risk of any car trouble. Having said this, Laura and I will be off the mountain for two days as we travel to Raleigh for some personal time. We will be available, however, on our cell phones.

On occasion we need to be away, although we have loved the Christmas season, the visits to the tree farms, the preparations in the church and in our home. We so enjoyed the open house (although a week late). And we felt that the blending of the two church groups was beneficial to us all. As we travel to Raleigh, we will be at worship on Epiphany, thanking God for all our blessings, for each one of you, and asking God to use us as messengers of his Epiphany light. May He also use each one of you as we begin this new year with new hopes, dreams and resolves to be more loving, more giving and more forgiving.

Pastor Bob Matthias